Health library

Pelvic Pain

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is a common complaint among women. Its nature and intensity may fluctuate, and its cause is often obscure. In some cases, no disease is evident. Pelvic pain can be categorized as either acute, meaning the pain is sudden and severe, or chronic, lasting over a period of months or longer. Pelvic pain may originate in genital or extragenital organs in and around the pelvis, or it may be psychological, which can make pain feel worse or actually cause a sensation of pain, when no physical problem is present.

Additional information about the timing of the pain and the presence of other symptoms related to activities such as eating, sleeping, sexual activity, and movement can also help the physician in determining a diagnosis.

Diagnostic tests for pelvic pain:

In addition to a complete medical history and physical and pelvic examination, diagnostic procedures for pelvic pain may include:

laparoscopy-a minor surgical procedure in which a laparoscope, a thin tube with a lens and a light, is inserted into an incision in the abdominal wall. Using the laparoscope to see into the pelvic area, the physician can determine the locations, extent, and size of the endometrial growths.

x-ray-electromagnetic energy used to produce images of bones and internal organs onto film.

Treatment for pelvic pain:

Specific treatment for pelvic pain will be determined by your physician based on:

your overall health and medical history

extent of condition

cause of the condition

your tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies

expectations for the course of the condition

your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

antibiotic medications

anti-inflammatory and/or pain medications

relaxation exercises

oral contraceptives (ovulation inhibitors)

surgery

physical therapy

If a physical cause cannot be found, pelvic pain may be diagnosed as a psychological defense or coping mechanism for some type of trauma. In some cases, psychotherapy is recommended. In other cases, physicians may recommend a multi-disciplinary treatment utilizing a number of different approaches including nutritional modifications, environmental changes, physical therapy, and pain management.